SQUID INK BURGER BUNS (Black Burger Buns)

 

Dive into Deliciously Dark Delights with a Touch of the Sea

Squid Ink Burger Buns: A Unique Culinary Delight If you're looking to add a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor to your burgers, Squid Ink Burger Buns are the perfect choice. Inspired by the intriguing black burgers from McDonald's, Burger King’s Whopper, and the famous Ikasumi Burger, these buns not only look striking but also bring a unique taste to your table. To ensure these buns are super soft, we’re using the yudane method. I hope you enjoy making and eating these extraordinary buns!

The Fascinating World of Squid Ink Squid ink, also known as cuttlefish ink, has been a staple in Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine for centuries. Its rich, black color and unique briny flavor make it a sought-after ingredient for adding depth and visual appeal to a variety of dishes. From pastas and risottos to bread and even ice cream, squid ink lends a sophisticated touch that's both exotic and enticing. When used in bread making, squid ink transforms ordinary buns into gourmet creations. The dark hue not only makes the buns visually stunning but also hints at the subtle sea-infused flavor within. Despite its intense color, the taste of squid ink is surprisingly mild, offering just a hint of the ocean that pairs beautifully with a variety of fillings.

Recipe video:

Understanding the Yudane Method The secret to achieving incredibly soft and fluffy burger buns lies in the yudane method, a traditional Japanese technique that involves pre-gelatinizing the starch in bread flour. This process helps the dough retain more moisture, resulting in a tender, airy crumb that stays soft for days. To make yudane, you simply mix boiling water with bread flour, creating a thick, sticky paste. This paste is then incorporated into the main dough, boosting its hydration and elasticity. The result is a dough that's easier to work with and produces buns with a wonderfully soft texture and extended shelf life. Crafting the Perfect Squid Ink Burger Buns Creating squid ink burger buns at home is a rewarding culinary adventure. The process begins with preparing the yudane dough, which is then combined with the main dough ingredients, including bread flour, yeast, egg yolk, sugar, salt, butter, and of course, squid ink. The squid ink not only gives the buns their signature black color but also adds a touch of umami flavor. As the dough rises and bakes, the kitchen fills with a delightful aroma, promising a unique and delicious treat. These buns are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to sophisticated gatherings. Their striking appearance makes them a great conversation starter, and their soft, flavorful crumb pairs well with a variety of burger toppings. Whether you opt for a classic beef patty, a juicy chicken fillet, or a hearty veggie burger, these squid ink buns will elevate your meal to a whole new level.

Ingredients:

Yudane Dough:

• 50g bread flour
• 50g boiling water

Main Dough:

• 250g bread flour
• 130g cold water
• 1 pc. (20g) egg yolk
• 4g instant dry yeast
• 4g sea salt
• 20g sugar
• 20g unsalted butter
• 15g squid ink (cuttlefish ink)

For Glazing:

• 1 pc. egg white
• Sesame seeds (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Yudane Dough:

• In a small bowl, mix 50g of bread flour with 50g of boiling water.
• Stir until it forms a sticky dough.
• Cover with plastic wrap and let it cool to room temperature. You can prepare this the night before and store it in the refrigerator.

2. Make the Main Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine 250g of bread flour, 4g of instant dry yeast, 4g of sea salt, and 20g of sugar.
• Add the yudane dough, 130g of cold water, 1 egg yolk, and 15g of squid ink to the dry ingredients.
• Mix until the dough starts to come together.
• Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
• Add 20g of unsalted butter and continue kneading until fully incorporated and the dough is shiny and smooth.

3. First Proof:

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
• Let it proof in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the Buns:

• Punch down the dough to release the air.
• Divide the dough into equal portions (about 60-70g each) and shape them into smooth balls.
• Place the dough balls onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

5. Second Proof:

• Cover the shaped buns with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
• Let them proof for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.

6. Prepare for Baking:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Brush the tops of the buns with egg white and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.

7. Bake:

• Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a slight golden color on top.

8. Cool and Serve:

• Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
• Use them for your favorite burger recipes and enjoy the unique taste and appearance of your Squid Ink Burger Buns!

These Squid Ink Burger Buns are not only visually stunning but also incredibly soft and flavorful, thanks to the yudane method and the addition of squid ink. They are sure to impress your guests and elevate your burger game to a whole new level. Enjoy!